Code Talkers Recognition Congressional Medals Program: St. Regis Mohawk Tribe (New York)
- Year of Issue: 2008
- Authorizing Legislation: Public Law 110-420
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Background
The Program
The Code Talkers Recognition Act of 2008 requires the Secretary of the Treasury to strike Congressional Medals in recognition of the dedication and valor of Native American code talkers to the U.S. Armed Services during World War I and World War II. “Code talkers” refers to those Native Americans who used their tribal languages as a means of secret communication during wartime.
Under the Act, unique gold medals are struck for each Native American tribe that had a member who served as a code talker. Silver duplicate medals are presented to the specific code talkers, their next of kin, or other personal representatives. In addition, bronze duplicates are available for sale to the public.
The Navajo Nation was awarded Congressional Gold Medals in 2001 under Public Law 106-554.
Characteristics
The obverse design features a WWII code talker, a snipe and the principal clans of the Mohawk Tribe—a bear, a wolf and a snapping turtle.
The reverse design features a profiled figure, a Mohawk kustowa headdress, a bear claw necklace, a war club, and a Mohawk Wolf Belt.
Obverse Inscriptions
- AKWESASNE MOHAWK CODE TALKERS
Reverse Inscriptions
- WORLD WAR I
- WORLD WAR II
- ACT OF CONGRESS 2008
Mint and Mint Mark
Artist Information
Obverse- Sculptor: Phebe Hemphill, Medallic Artist
- Designer: Justin Kunz, Artistic Infusion Program
- Sculptor: Joseph Menna, Medallic Artist